Interactive Tools for Digital Cae Shape Optimization of Class a Surfaces: a Bridge Between Styling and Engineering

Document Number: 2005-01-1902

Date Published: April 2005

Author(s):
Paul Stewart - Exa Corporation

Abstract:
A decade of industrial experience with Exa's CFD software, PowerFLOW, has matured the simulation software to the point where the geometric modelling process is now the bottleneck to efficiency and effectiveness. Simply put, the actual CAE simulation event is now fast enough and accurate enough to drive design intent; however, the geometric design process that supplies alternative models to the software is not fast enough to keep up with the critical path of the design cycle. If CAE tools in general are to play an important role in creating design intent rather than simply verifying completed design work, then the modelling process which drives them will have to improve.

In the context of this paper, geometric design involves both Class A exteriors and under-hood geometries. Two pieces of software have been developed to help in this area: PowerWRAP and PowerCLAY. These software tools aid in the process of generating initial meshes and modelling free-form geometric design intent respectively. This paper outlines a design process in which these tools are applied and illustrates how this allows electronic aerodynamic analysis to move rapidly enough to keep pace with vehicle styling during theme development.

Product Status: In Stock

Included in: V114-6

See other papers presented at SAE 2005 World Congress & Exhibition, April 2005, Detroit, MI, USA, Session: Reliability and Robust Design in Automotive Engineering - Automotive Aero-Thermal & Fluid Systems

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